Expert: Dr. Man Tran, Ph.D., D.C., L.Ac. - 3/8/2009

Question
I have had ulcerative colitis for 21 years now.  When diagnosed I was put on Sulfasalazine along with steroids.  Now I am on Asacol, and have been for around 12 years. I am currently in a flair-up and my meds aren't seeming to help.  I am reluctant to go to the dr. b/c I know they will just put me on the steroids again. The Asacol obviously isn't helping, so I am looking for something else.  I have been taking Ibuprophen as an anti-inflammitory, and that does help, but I know to continue taking it will cause further damage, and that is something I don't need.  
Do you have any advice that will help?

Answer
Hi Jo,

Usually with ulcerative colitis, the condition stems from an imbalance of the digestive system involving the intestines, stomach, and spleen.  The heat in the digestive system will tend to produce an inflammatory condition to the area.  

There are herbs that can cool down the heat in the system.  However, the herbs work together.  In order to get an appropriate type and amount of herbs, it is best to visit a Chinese herbalist or an Acupuncturist.